What does electronegativity measure?

Electronegativity specifically measures the tendency of an atom to attract electrons when it is part of a compound. This property plays a crucial role in determining how atoms bond with each other, influencing the polarity of the bonds formed. Atoms with higher electronegativity values are more effective at attracting shared electrons than those with lower values. This concept is essential when analyzing chemical reactions, bond types (ionic versus covalent), and molecular polarity. Understanding electronegativity helps in predicting the behavior of different elements in chemical processes and reactions, making it a key concept in chemistry.